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It’s here!

Nothing says as much about a writer as her words, and the links in the sidebar will give you a glimpse into my stories and essays—as well as some favorite online sites of mine. In a word, I’ve spent the better part of my professional life writing fiction and essays and whatever assignments come my way; working as an editor/proofreader; and conducting workshops as a teaching artist in elementary/middle schools and libraries. In so many ways, that constant in my life—writing—is fed by all the other things I’ve done and continue to do. There’s no writing without reading, and it’s anyone’s guess how days spent doing yoga, taking walks, reading and answering texts (mostly from my daughter), responding to my husband’s need for tech support, and figuring out what’s for dinner factor into that writing mindset. Then there’s my blog, an exploration of all the small things, and the big ones, that impact our day-to-day lives.

“An ultimately optimistic and hopeful novel about growing up amid personal and political disarray.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Few novels are able to capture so well the truth of James Baldwin’s observation that ‘the individual is history writ small.’ Just Like February is a funny, compelling, and heartbreaking read.” ―Susanne Paola Antonetta, author of Make Me a Mother: A Memoir

“Deborah Batterman has a light touch with tough issues in this poignant coming-of-age story. A brave heroine, who finds her own strength even as her family is falling apart, Rachel Cohen will steal your heart.” ―Celine Keating, author of Play for Me and Layla

“Using humor to part the curtains, Deborah Batterman steps inside the seriousness of amusingly awry relationships. Such is the illuminated cloth of Shoes Hair Nails that friends and passersby shine as brightly as family and lovers. In Batterman’s heartfelt and jazzy debut, all ties are family ties.” — Nancy Zafris, author of Lucky Strike andThe Metal Shredders

Some days find me swimming now, something I’m just getting the hang of. After years of fumbling and splashing, too afraid of being in water over my head, I’m learning to swim. It is not just like riding a bike but one day I hope to see it in that same metaphoric light. Buoyancy and balance would seem to be keystones to an awakened life.